Blair to address nation

Prime Minister Tony Blair will address the nation tonight amid reports that British troops have invaded Iraq.

Mr Blair's message, being broadcast at 10pm, will mark increased UK involvement in the campaign, Downing Street sources said.

Earlier, Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon said the Prime Minister would make an address once the British force was "substantially engaged".

Mr Blair's official spokesman said it was recorded in Downing Street before he left for the EU summit in Brussels.

"He has recorded a broadcast to the nation this afternoon," the spokesman said.

"He wanted to record any such broadcast in Downing Street so it made sense to do that before leaving for Brussels, given the fast-moving nature of events.

"It will be broadcast at an appropriate time."

The message, which lasts around five minutes, was recorded in the White Room at 10 Downing Street, he added.

Most watched News videos